A taste of Britain: Exploring the UK’s food & drink

Whether you’re visiting traditional pubs, bustling food markets, or Michelin-starred restaurants, here’s a guide to some of the UK’s must-try food and drink.

Classic British dishes

1. Fish and Chips

One of the UK’s most iconic dishes, fish and chips consists of battered fish (usually cod or haddock) served with thick-cut chips. Traditionally enjoyed by the seaside, it’s best accompanied by mushy peas and a sprinkle of salt and vinegar.

2. Full English Breakfast

A hearty way to start the day, a traditional English breakfast includes bacon, sausages, eggs, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, toast, and black pudding. Variations exist in Scotland, Wales, and Ireland, each adding their regional twist.

3. Sunday Roast

A beloved British tradition, the Sunday roast features roasted meat (beef, chicken, lamb, or pork) served with Yorkshire puddings, roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and gravy. Many pubs across the UK serve this meal as a weekend staple.

4. Shepherd’s Pie & Cottage Pie

These comforting dishes feature a rich minced meat filling (lamb for shepherd’s pie, beef for cottage pie) topped with mashed potatoes and baked until golden.

5. Cornish Pasty

Hailing from Cornwall, the Cornish pasty is a savoury pastry filled with beef, potatoes, swede, and onions. Originally a miner’s meal, it remains a popular grab-and-go snack across the UK.

6. Haggis (Scotland)

Scotland’s national dish, haggis, is a savoury pudding made from minced sheep’s offal, oats, and spices, traditionally served with “neeps and tatties” (mashed turnips and potatoes).

7. Welsh Rarebit (Wales)

A delicious twist on cheese on toast, Welsh rarebit features a rich sauce made from melted cheese, mustard, and ale, poured over toasted bread and grilled to perfection.

Sweet treats & afternoon tea

1. Scones & Clotted Cream

A staple of British afternoon tea, scones are served with clotted cream and jam, best enjoyed with a cup of English Breakfast tea.

2. Sticky Toffee Pudding

A moist sponge cake made with dates and topped with a rich toffee sauce, often served with vanilla ice cream or custard.

3. Bakewell Tart

Originating from the town of Bakewell, this pastry features a shortcrust base, a layer of jam, and an almond frangipane topping.

4. Eccles Cakes

These small, flaky pastries filled with spiced currants hail from Eccles, Greater Manchester, and are a favourite with a cup of tea.

Traditional UK drinks

1. Tea

Tea is a staple of British culture, with black teas like English Breakfast and Earl Grey being the most popular. Afternoon tea, a social tradition featuring tea and light snacks, remains a beloved pastime.

2. Real Ale & Cask Beer

The UK has a proud brewing heritage, with real ale and cask-conditioned beers being favorites in traditional pubs. Popular breweries include Fuller’s, Greene King, and BrewDog.

3. Gin & Tonic

The UK has seen a gin renaissance, with craft distilleries producing unique botanical blends. London Dry Gin remains a classic choice, best enjoyed with tonic and a slice of lime.

4. Whisky (Scotland)

Scottish whisky (or Scotch) is world-renowned, with distilleries producing single malts and blended whiskies. The regions of Speyside, Islay, and the Highlands offer distinct flavor profiles.

5. Cider (West Country)

The UK is famous for its ciders, particularly from the West Country (Somerset and Herefordshire). From dry to sweet varieties, cider is a refreshing alternative to beer.

6. Pimm’s

A favourite summer drink, Pimm’s is a gin-based liqueur served with lemonade and fresh fruit, making it a staple at British garden parties and sporting events like Wimbledon.

Where to experience UK food & drink

• Traditional pubs – The best place to enjoy a Sunday roast or a pint of local ale.

• Food markets – Try Borough Market (London), St. George’s Market (Belfast), and Cardiff Market 

• Afternoon tea venues – Experience classic afternoon tea at The Ritz (London) or Bettys Tea Room (York).

• Distillery & Brewery Tours – Visit whisky distilleries in Scotland or cider houses in Somerset for a deeper dive into British drinks.